Press sub-editor : Training

Sub-editors will often have either completed a course accredited by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ)  before they enter journalism or they will study for an approved course while they are working. It is possible to gain entry to this role without prior training, though previous experience in a relevant setting is a must. Many of the large newspaper groups run in-house training programmes.

The NCTJ lists a range of approved courses, all of which cover the basics of journalism, including the law and the practical skills of journalism such as sub-editing.

Proficiency in sub-editing is gained on the job. Starting with the basics, such as editing out typing errors and spelling mistakes and adjusting word counts, and then moving on to writing headlines and learning to lay out a story on the page.

Newspaper groups may send their sub-editors on a range of in-company or external training courses. These are offered by the NCTJ and other relevant professional bodies. They cover all aspects of the role, including:

• sharpening your English;
• editing and proofreading;
• layout and design;
• media law.

Opportunities for advanced IT training may also help sub-editors update their skills and keep up with industry developments.